Oklahoma County District Judge Bernard Jones has denied a request by Douglass High School in Oklahoma City to replay a disputed playoff game against Locust Grove.
In his ruling Thursday morning, Jones said even though Douglass’s request was rooted in equity, it’s impossible to make sure that replaying any part of the Nov. 28 game would be fair to all involved.
There is simply no way to fully and completely replicate the events and conditions of the disputed quarterfinal in such a way that would alleviate any and all anxiety or question of fairness. Unfortunately, whether in terms of the weather or field conditions, player fatigue, the actions of the coaches or referees, etc., on the day of the quarterfinal, there is no best way to right this wrong without creating even greater uncertainty or inviting further error.
The Associated Press reports an improperly enforced penalty erased a touchdown that would have put Douglass ahead of Locust Grove with 64 seconds left. Locust Grove held on to win 20-19, and Douglass appealed to the Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association.
The association's staff declined the appeal, and its board rejected the replay options, prompting Douglass to go to court.
Oklahoma City Public Schools District Athletic Director Keith Sinor said in a statement OKCPS won’t appeal the ruling, but instead will work with the Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activities Association to make sure something like this doesn’t happen again.
"From the beginning, the Oklahoma City Public School District (OKCPS) has been clear that we have a responsibility... pic.twitter.com/njW3UFeC99
— OKC Public Schools (@OKCPS) December 11, 2014
Even though state Sen. David Holt’s 30th District does not include the high school located just east of downtown Oklahoma City, he’s been a vocal critic of the outcome of the game, and took to Twitter shortly after the decision.
Though the Douglass HS football team scored more points than its opponent, Douglass will not be moving on in the playoffs... (1/3)
— Mayor David Holt (@davidfholt) December 11, 2014
... That is deeply unfortunate. However, the events of the last two weeks have ensured that those kids at Douglass know... (2/3)
— Mayor David Holt (@davidfholt) December 11, 2014
... that everyone in this community knows that Douglass won that game. And for that, I am glad. (3/3)
— Mayor David Holt (@davidfholt) December 11, 2014
The ruling paves the way for Locust Grove to take on Heritage Hall Friday night at 7 p.m. in Sapulpa.
Game On! The Chargers semi-final game vs Locust Grove WILL be played tomorrow night at Sapulpa HS. Kick is @7! #BeatLG #chargerpride
— Charger Football (@TheHallFootball) December 11, 2014
KGOU is a community-supported news organization and relies on contributions from readers and listeners to fulfill its mission of public service to Oklahoma and beyond. Donate online, or by contacting our Membership department.